Description: The MIL Mi-8, dubbed Hip by NATO, is a twin-engine, multi-role, medium transport helicopter capable of transporting troops and equipment or conducting ground attack missions. Besides, the aircraft is also suitable for civilian operators related to a variety of transportation roles. The Mi-8 was developed in the late 1950s and 1960s by the Soviet Union, first flew on July 7, 1961, entering service in 1967. The five-bladed main rotor is driven by either two TV2-117 or TV3-117 turboshaft engines rated from 1,700-shp to 2,200-shp allowing a top speed of 230-250 kilometers per hour. In addition to its crew of two/three men, the standard Mi-8 can transport as many as 24/28 troops. The Mi-17 was the export designation for the Soviet Mi-8. The Mi-171 refers to the modern production standard introduced in 1991. The aircraft design and technologies evolved over 60 years with the current production standards (various models) being far more sophisticated and performant than early models. More than 12,000 Mi-8/17/171 helicopters of all models were produced or are in production for the Soviet Union, Russia and international customers. As of November 2013, roughly 2,400 Mi-8/Mi-17 helicopters remain in service worldwide. In January 2015 that figure had increased to 2,469 aircraft with several models remaining in production beyond 2020.

The Mi-17V-5, Mi-8MTV-5 Russian Armed Forces designation, is a military transport helicopter optimized for operations in hot climates and high altitudes powered by VK-2500 turboshaft engines. The aircraft is also suitable for day/night operations in all weather conditions and very low altitude using special cabin equipment. Its state-of-the-art navigation system shows all the flight information to the pilot on four multifunctional display screens thus reducing crew's workload. The Mi-17V-5 helicopters are manufactured at the Kazan Helicopter Plant. The Mi-8MTV-5-1 is a version intended to serve with the Russian Armed Forces and law enforcement agencies. It can also serve for search and rescue (SAR) and other specialized tasks. The first Mi-8MTV5-1 was delivered to Russia in October 2014. The Mi-17V-5 entered service in 2006 and is intended as a replacement for aging Mi-8 helicopters. The Indian Armed Forces have ordered more than 150 Mi-17V-5 helicopters so far.